11 March 2024 , 18:53
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Gareth Southgate is facing a keeper dilemma which has been highlighted by Aaron Ramsdale ’s Arsenal rollercoaster.
Gunners keeper Ramsdale, 25, was in the spotlight after his gaffe gifted Brentford an equaliser on Saturday. But Ramsdale then redeemed himself with two sensational saves which ended up playing a major part in Arsenal’s win which put them top of the Premier League.
And that is at the heart of the decision facing England boss Southgate as he prepares to name his final squad ahead of the Euros this summer. Southgate will name his squad on Thursday for this month’s friendlies with Brazil and Belgium and what he does over his keepers, left back and midfield are at the heart of the key decisions.
Everton ’s Jordan Pickford is the undisputed No.1 but any keeper worth his salt knows he needs back-up and competition to push him. Ramsdale was a hugely popular member of the World Cup squad in Qatar and his form last season even had people calling for him to succeed Pickford.
But Ramsdale has lost his place to David Raya and his lack of game time has led to rustiness and the sort of mistakes which led to his error against Brentford when Yoane Wissa closed him down because he took too long over a clearance. However, Ramsdale’s character and quality cannot be doubted as he did not let his head drop and made two super saves to keep Arsenal level and give them the platform for Kai Havertz to score the winner.
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But can Southgate balance that rustiness against Ramsdale’s quality and experience? That is the key question. The likelihood and smart money suggests that Ramsdale will be in the squad on Thursday. Southgate generally backs players who are good for him and Ramsdale has been reliable.
Southgate has stuck by Harry Maguire and Kalvin Phillips during periods while they have lost their places at club level. That is good news for Ramsdale but the wider issue is a bigger one for the keepers.
Sam Johnstone is also back in at Crystal Palace but has endured injuries and is also facing competition from Dean Henderson. Nick Pope is injured and may take time to come back from a shoulder issue while Southgate’s biggest misgiving about the Newcastle keeper has always been his distribution.
Ramsdale redeemed himself and needs to leave Arsenal this summer to revive his England chances (AFP via Getty Images)They have checked on Rangers keeper Jack Butland who is back in form in Scotland but it is a long way back for him. However, Butland seems to be the next cab off the rank.
But the long term solution for Ramsdale will have to be to leave Arsenal this summer for the sake of his career and England prospects. Raya will be signed permanently at the end of the season and Ramsdale will surely have offers with Arsenal ready to offload as they look to rebuild their own squad.
Ramsdale signed a new deal last year which takes him to 2026 with the option of another 12 months. So Arsenal could even think about a season long loan but it would be better for all if they sell now - and Ramsdale will only strengthen his England chances.
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